Ruh Khitch

Ruh Khitch, literally translated as ‘Spirit Pulling’, refers to the way the photographer puts his hand inside the camera and pulls out the photograph. The secret of this magical process is inside the camera which is just large enough to contain two trays of chemicals. This mini darkroom on legs allows an image to be shot and processed within two minutes. The first step produces a negative on photographic paper. This is then re-photographed to create a positive likeness.

Babba Bhutta

Babba Bhutta comes from Sheikhupura, a small town one hours drive from Lahore. You can find him on a street just off the main bazaar. He was taught the trade from his father and like his father he made his own camera. Babba Bhutta’s images are peaceful, reflecting the pace of life in a small town in the last half of the twentieth century.

Gogi Pehlwan

For forty years Mohammad Akram Gogi Pehlwan stood on the street corner opposite Data Dabar, Lahore. Apart from his fame as a strongman he was also a skilled and sensitive photographer. The collection includes several self portraits spanning 50 years. It gives a remarkable insight into his life and the characters he encountered.